“If you live long enough, you'll see that every victory turns into a defeat.”
— Simone de Beauvoir
Simplified Meaning:
Sometimes, what seems like a success can eventually feel like a failure. Imagine you win a big race; it feels great at first, but later you might realize that now everyone expects you to win again, making future races stressful. You might also miss the fun of racing because you’re too focused on winning. Or consider a business that grows quickly; it feels like victory, but it can lead to more work, stress, and even financial problems if not managed well. The idea here is that wins might bring unexpected troubles over time. To apply this wisdom, recognize that success isn't just about winning; it’s also about enjoying the process and handling new challenges that come with it. So, celebrate victories but stay humble and prepared for what might follow.